It is the fifth consecutive time that 31-year-old Casillas has won the award after he came second, third and fourth on two occasions between 2003 and 2007.

Casillas was central to helping Real Madrid win La Liga for the first time in four seasons ahead of rivals Barcelona last time round, while the 31-year-old was also a key part of Spain’s Euro 2012 winning squad. His form this year had prompted some to push him forward for a place in the final three man Ballon d’Or shortlist,

Ironically the award comes at a time when his starting spot at the Bernabeu has been placed in question by Jose Mourinho.